Guard (Security)

The University of Texas at Austin • Austin, UT

25d • Onsite

About The Position

The Guard provides security services for the Harry Ransom Center, a research library and museum on the University of Texas at Austin campus. The role helps ensure the safety of students, faculty, staff, and visitors while protecting University collections and property.

The Guard monitors visitor activity in galleries and public spaces in person and through video systems, controls access to restricted areas, conducts building patrols and security screenings, and responds to emergencies. The position also supports security operations for special events and works with Center departments and the University of Texas Police Department (UTPD) to maintain security practices and visitor service standards.

This role requires extended periods of standing or walking, active video surveillance, and work in adverse weather or temperatures. The schedule may include irregular shifts, evenings, weekends, holidays, mandatory overtime, and hours beyond the normal workday for special events. Shift assignments are determined after hiring based on departmental needs.

The position is based at the Harry Ransom Center on the UT Main Campus. The position is expected to continue. Salary is $43,000 and is non-negotiable. A criminal history background check is required for finalists.

Requirements

• High school graduation or GED and a stable work history.
• Ability to communicate clearly verbally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain situational awareness.
• General familiarity with the Microsoft Windows operating system.
• Ability to perform extended periods of foot patrol throughout all building spaces.
• Ability to provide credible testimony in a court of law.
• Commitment to maintaining a professional and respectful workplace for all.
• Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.
• Ability to work mandatory overtime and extended hours, including irregular shifts, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to stand or walk for extended periods and perform physical work, including climbing stairs and lifting or moving items weighing up to 35 pounds.

Nice To Haves

• One or more years of experience as a security guard or police officer in a library or museum setting.
• Two or more years of college-level education.
• Familiarity with police operations.
• Fluency in speaking and writing Spanish.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and manage visitor activity in galleries and public spaces, both in person and through video systems.
• Control access to restricted areas and enforce safety and security regulations.
• Conduct routine physical patrols of the building to safeguard collections, ensure a safe environment, and verify the proper performance of building systems.
• Perform security screenings, including bag checks, and supervise contractors, vendors, and staff working in restricted or secure areas.
• Respond to emergencies by following established procedures, coordinating with UTPD, and completing required incident and damage reports.
• Collaborate with Ransom Center departments to implement and maintain effective security practices and visitor service standards.
• Monitor security operations for special events, including load-in/load-out, vendor sign-in, and crowd control.
• Work irregular hours, including evenings, weekends, and special events, as operational needs require.
• Maintain current knowledge of Harry Ransom Center and UTPD security policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of Center operations.

Benefits

• Retirement plan eligibility through the Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position meeting the stated hours-per-week and duration thresholds.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED